What is the most critical part of bunkering operations that can result in an oil spill?

During bunkering operations, the most critical moment that can lead to an oil spill is when tanks are being topped off. This process involves filling tanks to their designated capacity, and if not managed carefully, there is a significant risk of overfilling. Overfilling can occur due to various reasons, such as failure of the watchman to monitor the gauges accurately or miscommunication between crew members.

When tanks are topped off, attention must be given to prevent spillage, as the liquid contents can reach the brim of the tank rapidly. In addition, the volume of oil being transferred can change with temperature and other factors, complicating the ability to estimate when a tank is nearing capacity. Proper procedures, including using alarms or overfill protection systems, are critical to minimize this risk.

While disconnection of hoses or filtration systems may also present risks, they do not carry the same immediate and high likelihood of causing a spill as the topping off process does. Proper training and protocols during this stage are essential to prevent environmental hazards and ensure safe bunkering practices.